Dig Your [Networking] Well Before You Are Thirsty

Your future career is only as good as the quality of your extended network. A network is a social and business resource that must be cultivated and nurtured over time. Your network supports and sustains you in the good times, but is the key to your survival in the bad times.

The time to build these contacts is not when you are looking for your next job.

My friend Bob recently found himself staring at unemployment. The start-up he was working for found itself no longer a start-up, but a thriving, mid-sized firm listed on the NASDAQ. This organization was enjoying such success largely due to Bob’s leadership, but now the company needed a different kind of leader. So Bob started looking around at who he knew in the industry and realized that he hadn’t spoken to anyone for about 3 years. Hmmmm.

Too often, people start networking only after they need something. Imagine a friend or relative who only calls when he needs money. Do you take his call? Do you look forward to hearing from him?

Effective networking means creating contacts and relationships now. Dig your well before you’re thirsty as Harvey Mackay says.

If you choose your network members wisely, they can nourish more than your current position and future career. This is Value Based Networking.

Most people accept the fact that health studies show the connection between long-term life, health and happiness is based on the quality of the relationships that support us. Few of us think of this as an investment we make for our future…but it is an investment just like education or exercise.

Value Based Networking is about creating value for others and in turn receiving value from them. It’s about taking charge of this critical advantage in life in a planned and strategic manner. Regardless of where you are in your career or life, if you are looking to make your future bigger than your past, you need to invest in the people who have helped you achieve your current success and those who can do so in the future.

Here is an exercise we’ve developed to help you begin Value Based Networking:

1. List 10 people best able to bring value to your career, today and in the future.

2. Now, prioritize.

3. Then think about the value they bring to you.

4. And then, the value you (could) bring to them.

5. When was the last time you had contact with this person?

6. And finally, what actions could you take to invest further in this relationship?

Most of us are uncomfortable “investing” in people for the sole purpose of accessing their knowledge and connections. We want to bring value to the relationship perhaps in the form of our own knowledge and connections or unique skill or interest. It’s a case of mutual value for mutual benefit. If you can be clear about what you want, you can begin to take action today to expand your value based network.

About the Author:

The Balanced WorkLife Company is dedicated to helping the best get better while they enjoy the journey. Our programs give you access to tools and methodologies that allow you to break through the barriers and achieve your goals while also helping you enjoy a balance between and within your job, your career and your personal life. Whether you are a seasoned professional or just starting your career, the Balanced WorkLife Company can help you achieve your ultimate potential. To learn more, visit www.balancedworklife.com and download our free report “The 16 Most Common Networking Mistakes to Avoid,” which is jam-packed with information to help you develop and build long-lasting business and social relationships.